Words
2020-10-30Proverbs 15:23 NLT
One of the easiest areas to repeatedly trip up on sin is in the way that we speak. So often, our mouth lets something slide out before we’ve fully thought about what we’re saying. But that can cause so much damage. Proverbs 18:21 tells us that ‘the tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences’ (NLT). It really is that serious.
All of our words carry our thoughts directly into someone else’s mind. A careless word from us can dramatically alter the way that other people think, feel, and even live their lives. God calls us to be diligent with our words, because our conversations have so much power.
However, the positive side to this is that if our words have so much influence, then the outcome can be dramatically positive when we invite God into what we say. Proverbs 15:23 also reminds us that ‘everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!’ (NLT).
When we work with God to resist the urge to speak negatively, we really can shine a light to those around us. It will take prayer and real practice, but it is possible with God to make it a habit to check ourselves before speaking. Even while we’re working on curbing negative words, we can send out as many good words as possible.
Let’s make a real effort to use every conversation that we have as an opportunity to share something of the hope and joy that we’ve found in God. Imagine the trail of positivity you’d leave everywhere you go.